Heart Disease Diagnosis

As part of a diagnostic work-up of heart and valve function, your doctor may use echocardiography, which sends sound waves through the heart to make a moving image of your heart and, in some cases, cardiac MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). These tests... Full Answer

In mild to moderate cases, you may not know if you have pulmonary valve leakage, because typically there are no symptoms at those stages. Also known as “regurgitation,” pulmonary valve leakage causes blood to flow backward into the... Full Answer

Bradycardia, or low heart rate, can be diagnosed in several ways.  By physical exam, the heart rate can be determined by using a stethoscope and counting the heartbeats while listening to the heart, or by feeling the pulse and counting the rate.... Full Answer

The first step in the process of diagnosing and treating cardiovascular disease is a visit with your doctor to discuss your risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease, as well as any cardiac symptoms you may be having. Your doctor will... Full Answer

An ultrasound test allows your physician to see how your heart and heart valves are functioning, whether there are blockages or narrowings in some of your blood vessels, and the size of your kidneys. When performed in the heart, ultrasound is... Full Answer

Most cardiac tests carry minimal risk, but risks versus benefits vary by test type. Remember, as the patient, you are also a part of your care decisions. Before you undergo certain types of tests (MRA, CT scan or angiogram), you will be advised... Full Answer

Here are some common reasons your physician may recommend cardiovascular disease testing. You: Have symptoms that suggest cardiovascular disease Have risk factors for cardiovascular disease Are about to undergo surgery and may be at risk for... Full Answer

The question below can help you start a conversation with your physician/practitioner about recommended cardiovascular tests. What information will this test give us about my cardiovascular disease? What are the benefits of this test? Does this... Full Answer

Biomarkers are substances that can be measured as possible indicators of the risk or progression of a specific health condition. For heart disease, several biomarkers have been studied for their potential to improve early diagnosis of heart... Full Answer

Compared with other tests, the electrophysiology (EP) study provides better information about the electrical system of your child's heart. It can help your child's doctor accurately diagnose the cause of a heart rhythm problem, find its source,... Full Answer